Tips on Snowshoeing

Tips on Snowshoeing

As winter blankets the landscape with a pristine layer of snow, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the serenity of the season than by strapping on a pair of snowshoes and venturing into the great outdoors. Snowshoeing offers a unique and tranquil experience, allowing you to explore untouched landscapes and revel in the crisp, fresh air. Here are some tips on snowshoeing that can help you find a new winter hobby!

Why you should try it

There is nothing more peaceful than hearing the sound of soft fluffy snow under your feet, breathing in fresh air, and seeing the snow-covered canopy of trees above you.  Snowshoeing is an easy activity that you can do together as a family.  It is also a great multigenerational sport. It is a great way to get in some cardio on those long winter days.  Did you know that the average adult can burn over 500 calories in one hour of snowshoeing? And the views you’ll see will be much better than running on a treadmill indoors. Here are some tips on snowshoeing:

What gear do you need?

Selecting the appropriate gear is crucial for an enjoyable snowshoeing experience. Invest in quality snowshoes that match your weight and the type of terrain you’ll be traversing. Additionally, opt for waterproof and insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry. Don’t forget to layer up with moisture-wicking clothing, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout your journey.

Let’s start with a good pair of snowshoes. Here are the ones I have.  I love them!

Tubbs Wilderness W Snowshoes

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2024 New Year’s Resolution Book Roundup

book on table with vase and coffee

2024 New Year’s Resolution Book Roundup

One of my favorite things about the start of the new year is the promise of fresh beginnings, goals of self-improvement, and the chance to reimagine what your life can be. It’s the perfect time to embrace the spirit of renewal and transformation by embarking on a journey of self-discovery. Whether you’re seeking wellness, personal growth, or simply aiming to make 2024 your best year yet, our handpicked selection of books is designed to support and motivate you on your path to success. Cheers to a year of growth, positivity, and the pursuit of a better, brighter you! Enjoy our 2024 New Year’s Resolution Book Roundup!

The Adventure Challenge Family Edition

This is the perfect book for those who want to leave a legacy of memories with their tribe. This book will help you obliterate boredom, break out of ruts, discover new favorite traditions, and create those moments that you’ll tell stories about for years. With challenges ranging from baking an apple pie blindfolded to painting on a unique canvas, boring family board games are a thing of the past. Until you scratch it off, your adventure is a mystery! Once you’ve scratched off the challenge, you HAVE to do it. Each challenge has a time and budget guide to help you decide. Great for all families but is ideally created with kids ages 4-15 in mind and for families of around 4-8 members. Don’t forget to take pictures and journal about your experiences in the provided spaces. Once you’ve completed all the challenges, you’ll have a scrapbook full of wonderful memories to look back on.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

Buy it here!

Instagram

Facebook

The Adventure Challenge Kids Edition

 Entertain your kids for hours with adventures they’ll remember forever. The Adventure Challenge Kids Edition is here to create memories that your kids will love. Whether they’re building a house made of snacks, making special gifts to give to friends or playing “Nature Bingo,” your kids will want to do these adventures over and over again! All activities require very little set up, supplies or parental supervision. With the included parent key, each adventure is a surprise for the kids but not for you. This book is packed with playful and creative scratch-off adventures your kids can do on their own or with friends and siblings. Ideal for ages 6-12. Don’t forget to take pictures and encourage your kids to write a few notes about their adventures in the provided spaces. Once they’ve completed all the challenges, they’ll have a scrapbook full of fun memories to look back on.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

Buy it here!

Facebook

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The 50 Best Experiences to Give for Gifts

I don’t know about you, but my kids don’t need more toys or knickknacks.  I feel like an experience is a much better gift because it lets us make memories together.  I swear, the closer the girls get to heading off to college, the crazier more sentimental I get about the importance of family time.  If you’re thinking of giving an experience for a gift this year, here are some great ideas. Here are Best Experiences to Give as Gifts:

Give lessons:

Art classes

Canvas painting

Pottery painting

Voice lessons or acting classes

Cooking classes- Many places offer weekly classes or workshops.

Music lessons- You could also rent them the equipment they’ll need.

Dance classes- Take them to an introductory class, buy them some tutus, or help pay for their classes.

Woodworking- you could also give them tools to use, supplies, and DIY books

Help pay for them to go to summer camp.  Or give things they’ll need, like trunks,

Give animal experiences:

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2023 Holiday Gift Guide for the Home

Winter festive still life scene. Burning candle decorated by wooden stars, hazelnuts and pine cones standing near window on wooden cut board. Glittering Christmas lights, fir branch on wool plaid.

2023 Holiday Gift Guide for the Home

Whether you’re searching for the perfect present to brighten up a friend’s living space or looking to enhance your own home decor, we have your go-to resource for inspiration and ideas. From cozy and practical to stylish and innovative, we’ve curated a diverse collection of gift suggestions that will add warmth, charm, and functionality to any home. Enjoy our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide for the Home!

KIAYACI Full Length Mirror

Looking for a gift that’s both practical and stylish? How about this fabulous mirror? I love the rustic frame! Since it is 58″ x 24″, you can see your entire figure easily. The mirror is coated with an explosion-proof membrane, so broken glass will not shatter into pieces.  Since there are hanging holes in the back of the mirror, it can both lean or hang on the wall.  Can be used in many rooms like the bathroom, closet, living room, bedroom, dining room and more.

4 Modern Suede Dining Chairs

With soft suede fabric cushions, these dining chairs offer a comfortable and cozy seating experience, perfect for long dinners or family gatherings.  The suede fabric upholstery is durable and easy to clean, ensuring your guest chairs stay looking great for years to come. They look stylish around a table or you can separate them to create cute sitting areas throughout the house. These beautiful chairs come with simple instructions and all the necessary hardware to make the assembly process quick and hassle-free.

Rustic Whitewashed Solid Wood Wall Hanging Hand Towel Ladder

This 3 tier torched wood hand towel storage ladder with 3 bars and rustic hanging rope would instantly add rustic style to a room.  These would be nice for hanging hand towels and dish cloths in your bathroom or kitchen. It would also look great with some light throw blankets. Approximate Dimensions: 10.31 L x 2.28 W x 21.97 H. It comes in a few different colors to choose from.

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2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Men

Woman in sweater giving a wrapped Christmas gift box to child.

Whether you’re shopping for a significant other, father, brother, or a cherished friend, our Men’s Christmas Gift Guide is here to make your holiday shopping easier and more enjoyable. From tech-savvy gadgets to stylish fashion accessories, and everything in between, this guide is your one-stop resource for finding thoughtful and memorable gifts that will make this Christmas a season of joy and celebration. Enjoy our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Men!

Echelon Reflect Smart Connect Fitness Mirror

View your reflection on this large screen as your trainer guides you step by step to ensure your form and technique is accurate. Choose from their team of world-class instructors who will get your blood pumping with high-energy cardio, yoga, Zumba, strength, Pilates, boxing, celebrity workouts and more. Dance, EDM, Folk and Funk. Hip Hop to K-Pop. Metal, Latin and R&B…whatever your ears want, they’ve got!

Outdoor Pizza Oven

Who doesn’t love home-made pizza? With the rotating stand, you can control the pizza stone to easily rotate it to effectively absorbs heat, resulting in a perfectly crisp and delicious pizza crust. It comes with a built-in thermometer, allowing you to easily monitor the temperature inside the oven. Using hardwood pellet fuel allows for a balanced, reliable burn, providing the perfect burn-smoke ratio, adding a special flavor of smoky wood to food that gas ovens don’t have. Say goodbye to take-out. 

Everdure CUBE Portable Charcoal Grill

Lightweight steel and cool-to-touch handles make the Cube easy to transport. Grill on any heat-resistant surface. This charcoal BBQ has an integrated storage tray for accessories or food. It also includes a bamboo cutting board to prepare meat, fish, veggies & more. This would be perfect for a boat, picnic, roadtrip, camping, etc.

YETI Camino 50 Tote

Yeti makes the most incredible products. This waterproof, puncture-proof, Camino Carryall is designed for whatever the day throws your way. Perfect tote bag for the boat, lake, pool, beach, camping or road trips. This tote has dividers so you can keep your gear organized and at the ready. Comes in a variety of colors.

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2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Women

Time to celebrate the fabulous women in your life, and what better way to show your appreciation than with thoughtful gifts that bring warmth and joy? We’ve curated a collection of presents that cater to the diverse interests and tastes of all the women on your list. Whether you’re shopping for your mom, sister, wife, or a cherished friend, our guide is your go-to resource for finding the perfect gifts that will make this holiday season memorable. Enjoy our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Women!

ANAIRUI Lip Scrubs Exfoliator & Moisturizer-Lip Sleeping Mask & Sugar Lip Scrub

This lip care kit includes a butter lip sleeping mask and a sugar lip scrub. This healing and repair kit gently exfoliates lips and gives intensive lips repair. It’s great for dry, chapped lips and is a great overnight rescue kit for lips.

BODUM Pour Over Coffee Maker

Includes a reusable stainless steel mesh filter so you don’t need paper filters.  Double-wall insulation keeps coffee hot for hours. Cork grip stays cool, allowing comfortable, barehanded transport even when carafe is filled with hot coffee.

MakeUp Eraser, 7-Day Set

Erase all makeup with just water! Including waterproof mascara, eyeliner, foundation, lipstick, and more. Reusable, machine washable, and eliminates waste.

Chunky Cable Knit Throw Blanket 

This beautiful blanket comes in a variety of colors.  I love the burnt orange. Woven into a luxurious chunky knit, 100% natural cotton yarn fibers support a neutral finish that complements farmhouse chic home décor. Extra soft, super thick & comfy, Their large 51 inch x 63 inch throw blanket is just the wrap you need to snuggle up.  I love that this blanket is machine washable.

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2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Teens

Christmas Gifts

‘Tis the season! Welcome to our Christmas Gift Guide for Teens. Whether you’re shopping for a fashionista, a tech enthusiast, a creative artist, or an adventure seeker, we’ve created a list of must-have gifts that will light up the faces of teenagers on your Christmas list. Enjoy our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Teens!

Memoking Sticker Printer 

Only measuring half the size of a phone and weighing about 5 oz, which is easy to be put in your  pocket and carry it anywhere you want. Prints in black and white. Great for taking notes, creating organizers, printing out their artwork, and much more. Easy to use app makes it convenient.

POWERUP 4.0 The Next-Generation Smartphone Controlled Paper Airplane Kit

Grab a sheet of paper, fold it, and go! Instantly put yourself in the cockpit of an amazing smartphone controlled paper airplane that does high speed tricks. The bluetooth module, which includes autopilot control, connects to your phone so you can experience the sensation of flying countless paper, foam, and even Balsa Wood airplane models.

Loops, Barrel Rolls, & Hammerheads are achieved with the special Acro Mode! Your paper plane’s onboard computer automatically calibrates your paper airplane for imperfect weather with a built-in launch assist and wind stabilizer. Now hobbyists, tinkerers, or students can become the flight controller!

MYNT3D Professional Printing 3D Pen with OLED Display

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2023 Arts & Crafts Holiday Gift Guide

woman making wreath

2023 Arts & Crafts Holiday Gift Guide

Embrace the enchanting allure of the holiday season with our Christmas Arts & Craft Kit Gift Guide, where creativity meets festive cheer! The joy of giving takes center stage as we dive into a curated selection of craft kits that promise to turn this Christmas into a celebration of handmade wonders. Whether you’re an arts and crafts enthusiast or a novice looking to infuse a personalized touch into your gift-giving, these kits are your ticket to creating cherished memories and spreading holiday happiness. Enjoy our 2023 Arts & Crafts Holiday Gift Guide!

The Crafter’s Box

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

The Crafter’s Box wishes to deliver a joyful crafting experience by providing all the tools, materials, and expert instruction you need to create artisan-level projects that inspire and fulfill the creative spirit. They source the best artist instructors, high-quality tools, and materials so that you can count on the products you receive from them to build something beautiful. The process of making creates deep connections, helps us enhance our problem-solving skills, and find joy by taking time to slow down for meaningful and fulfilling activities. They are a small business supporting other small businesses, artists, and craftspersons. With every workshop they create, they make an honest effort to source project assets from local and small businesses with quality, uniqueness, and sustainability in mind

WHAT WORKSHOPS DO WE LOVE?

Acrylic Gouache Painting on S’well Water Bottles Workshop

painted water bottles

In this workshop, watercolor instructor Cara Rosalie Olsen discusses color theory, technique, and composition before guiding you in painting delicate florals on a stainless steel S’well water bottle. As you paint, Cara encourages you to do so with a ‘gestural approach’ to capture the essence of a flower without getting too caught up in the details.

woman painting on a water bottle

DIFFICULTY: Intermediate

MAKE TIME: A Weekend

What was included in the kit?

water bottle painting kit

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2023 Self-Care Holiday Gift Guide

Christmas ornament on a tree

2023 Self-Care Holiday Gift Guide

We all deserve moments of rejuvenation and self-indulgence, and what better way to show yourself or a loved one some appreciation than through thoughtful self-care gifts? Whether you’re searching for ways to relax, destress, or simply pamper yourself, our self-care gift guide is here to help you discover a curated selection of products and ideas that will nurture the body, mind, and soul. Enjoy our 2023 Self-Care Holiday Gift Guide!

Evolv

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

Evolv delivers biology-driven, science-based, high-performance products using natural and organic ingredients—for transformative visible results in all hair types. Their products produce visible results you can see and feel. Every product in the line does multiple jobs, and is highly effective. Experience EVOLVh – and you too will describe your hair as revitalized, renewed, restored, youthful, vibrant, soft, and manageable.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

EVOLVh Hair care products

SmartColor Protecting Shampoo

This ultra-protective, anti-fade shampoo keeps color in and impurities out. Its breakthrough color-preserving formula gently cleanses, while targeted amino acids strengthen and protect against damaging dyes and other color treatments for hair that’s healthy, shiny, and vibrant. It’s a smart investment for your color—and your wallet.

SmartColor Protecting Conditioner

This innovative, color-preserving, and reparative formula deep conditions while targeted amino acids strengthen and protect against damaging dyes and treatments. Sublime hydration leaves hair soft, smooth, and shiny—with vibrant color that lasts.

EVOLVh Hair care products

UltraShine Moisture Shampoo

Their weightless color-safe shampoo gently cleanses with sulfate-free, non-stripping ingredients—infusing nourishing antioxidants plus amino and fatty acids into strands for visibly stronger, smoother hair, and amplified shine from root to tip.

Ultrashine Moisture Conditioner

Their bestselling conditioner transforms dull, drab tresses into hair that’s free of frizz and full of shine—infusing nourishing antioxidants plus amino and fatty acids into strands to hydrate and detangle without weighing them down. Rinse out for a smooth, silky sheen you need to see to believe.

EVOLVh Hair care products

Ultimate Styling Lotion

A lightweight do-it-all styling lotion with medium hold. It smooths strands, defines curls into bouncy ringlets, eliminates frizz, boosts shine, and keeps it all together with buildable hold minus the crunch. All with heat & UV protection to boot.

SmartStart Leave-In Conditioner

A foundational step in your EVOLVh routine after shampooing and conditioning, this bestselling leave-in helps close the cuticle for brilliant shine and maximum smoothness. Plus, it nourishes and strengthens strands with plant-powered ingredients, while defending against damaging heat & UV rays.

EVOLVh Hair care products

Protect Your Color Discovery Kit

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2023 Beverage Holiday Gift Guide

2023 Beverage Holiday Gift Guide

Whether you’re shopping for the perfect present or just looking to treat yourself, you’ve stumbled upon a treasure trove of delicious discoveries. From cozy coffee blends that’ll have you bouncing out of bed, to teas that will comfort you on chilly nights, to unique cocktails you can share with friends, we’ve got your cravings covered. Here is our 2023 Beverage Holiday Gift Guide.  Cheers!

Mouth

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

If you’re looking for a gift basket, Mouth has so many options for you. Some boxes are all about pickles, wellness, snacks, charcuterie, and more.  I love that you can shop for your basket by region, diet, or occasion.  They also have a great subscription box service so you can keep giving month after month!. Everything at Mouth is made in small-batches by makers from across the U.S. They’re passionate about telling their inspiring stories, bringing their Mouthwatering products to you and helping their small businesses (and your appetite) grow.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

Cozy Cocktail Kit

Cocktail kit with simple syrups

Upgrade your bar cart to capture the best flavors of fall and celebrate the changing of seasons. Our hand-picked selection brings warmth, spice, and everything nice to your standard supply of spirits. Transform that old fashioned with a dash of apple blossom bitters, enhance that Moscow mule with the tartness of pomegranate, and add festive flair to your mocktails with a little Cranberry 5 Spice. These mixers are a must-have addition to any festive feast you have planned. Bottoms up! The ideal gift for a hostess-with-the-mostess, a bar-cart connoisseur, and lovers of libations.

WHO DOESN’T LIKE A SPECIAL DEAL? ENJOY!

Take a peek at their website.  When I wrote this, there was a deal: Get 15% off when you join their mailing list. (Offer not valid if it’s not currently on their website.)

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Kolkata Chai

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

Kolkata chai mix

Kolkata Chai uses the same CTC Black Assam tea that’s used by chaiwallahs across India. Organically sourced from legacy tea estates, it brings that authentic, street-style chai flavor while being a better-for-you source of caffeine. Their kit comes with instructions and is easy to make in 5-7 minutes. Welcome to your new favorite drink!

They have the most amazing recipes on their blog.  They have recipes for everything from desserts to oatmeal to iced drinks. Take a peek.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

Signature Masala Chai Mix

kolkata chai mix

Their Signature Masala Chai mix delivers a bold, delicious cup of tea. Each packet contains 100% Organic Assam tea with generous amounts of whole cardamom, cinnamon, and spices.

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